Succession Loophole

The Succession Loophole is the ancient and deliberately literal succession rule acknowledged by Article II of the Constitution of WHAAAT!?.

The traditional rule states that that which kills the leader shall become the next leader. The Constitution limits the rule to natural persons, registered citizens, and verified fauna and excludes abstractions, illnesses, accidents, appliances, and acts of God.

A new ruler arising under the clause must demonstrate basic fitness to govern within 90 days or face a Retaking. In the absence of a qualifying claimant, succession proceeds to the eldest verified descendant of WHAT.